The best camping near Lake Wappapello State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lake Wappapello adventure.

100% (3 reviews)
100% (3 reviews)

Soak up the summertime vibe at Southeast Missouri’s largest lake.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Lake Wappapello State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Wappapello State Park

100%
(46)

The Holliday Landing on the Lake

44 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Greenville, MO
Learn more about this land: Holliday Landing Resort & Marina offers a variety of beautiful campsites to meet your camping needs. There are 11 sites with water, electric, and sewer hook-ups, 28 sites with water and electric, there is a secluded mini-loop where tent campers can enjoy the same access and amenities. All water and electric campsites have 30/120 amp electric service and frost-free water. Guests may use the modern restroom facility with showers. A dump station is available for your use. Each non-primitive site has a gravel pad for RV campers and parking, a grassy area for tent camping, visiting, or playing, a picnic table, and a fire ring with grill. Each primitive site has a grassy area, picnic table, and fire ring with no designated parking area. For your convenience, camping guests may use the boat ramp and may rent a boat slip for a $10 nightly fee.  Kids and adults alike can play together at our playground area. Camping guests also have access to an inground swimming pool at no extra charge.
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from 
$35
 / night
100%
(3)

Frost Arena

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Poplar Bluff, MO
Welcome to Frost Arena! From cattle roping to trail rides and overnight camping, we can accommodate your needs. We offer dry camping with corrals available, along with water access and a peaceful country road. Our area is large enough to accommodate big trailers on maintained gravel. Horses are allowed, and dogs must be kept on a leash. We are conveniently located close to local restaurants, gas stations, and grocery stores.
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from 
$68
 / night
100%
(3)

Broken Paddle Lake

9 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Zalma, MO
If you love fishing and being outdoors. This spot is for you. The Bass, Crappie and large Bluegill are awaiting your catch. You can keep your catch and cook fresh for your dinner. There is a dock to hang out on flat surface for camping and RV. Enjoy your time away from the everyday hustle and bustle.
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from 
$50
 / night
98%
(306)

Four Creeks Campground

19 sites · RVs, Tents90 acres · Ellington, MO
Three crystal clear creeks to swim, wade, hunt rocks, or just relax. We have several tent sites right on the creeks and RV sites close for just a short walk for swimming fun. Right on miles of ATV, OHV, SxSs or horse trails. Close to the Black River and the Current for floating, Kayaking or fishing. Clearwater Lake for boat rentals or Jet skies. Sites to see, Blue Springs, Big Springs Johnson Shut Inns, Elephant Rock, Rocky Falls, and many state parks to explore. We are also only three miles from the town of Ellington, MO for your shopping needs, several restaurants and antiquing.
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$20
 / night
100%
(1)

Stilts Getaway

4 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Zalma, MO
Sitting on approximately 20 acres of rual country setting is this stunning spot to unwind from your day to day routines. A little hike down the gravel road is a clear and cool spring creek. Perfect to get away from the internet and enjoy the peaceful outdoors. Prooerty is sitting about 5 miles from Duck Creek Conservation Area for fishing or to enjoy the scenery. Further down the road a few miles is Mingo National Wildlife Refuge. You can enjoy the boardwalk or bring your bikes to travel the trails as well as fishing.
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$50
 / night
100%
(1)

Rocky Creek Camp

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Zalma, MO
This site has beautiful views of the forest as well as Rocky Creek Spring. Secluded area. Beautiful clear view of the sky. Sit next to the creek and listen to nature. You can tent camp or a small camper. You will need an suv or 4x4 to reach the destination. Come stay, play and relax. You will be able to watch the stars at nigh
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Campfires
from 
$65
 / night

McGee Creek Camping

7 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Zalma, MO
Enjoy being in the middle of the woods surrounded by nature and the amazing views. Listen to the creek as it flows by. Hike around and explore the country. Wade in the creek, catch crawdads or fish with a small pole to catch bluegill and sunfish. At night enjoy stargazing. Sit by a small campfire and relax.
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Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
Booked 1 time

Rock Ridge

1 site · RV, Tent40 acres · Zalma, MO
This site is secluded and will have you surrounded with trees and the relaxing sound of nature. Listen to the birds and other wildlife that may go by. The terrain around is rocky. There are trails to follow for hiking. Enjoy time out in nature with your family or out by yourself for a great getaway.
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Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
Booked 36 times

Peaceful Michel Ranch

36 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Fairdealing, MO
Welcome to our tranquil retreat nestled next to a serene 50-acre lake! Our campsite offers a simple and secluded getaway, perfect for those seeking respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Situated on approximately 3 acres of pristine countryside, our farm provides a peaceful setting for reconnecting with nature. Whether you're lounging by the lake, casting a line for fishing, or paddling in a kayak or canoe, you'll find plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors. Please note that motorized boats are not permitted on the lake, ensuring a tranquil atmosphere for all guests. As we are located in the path of totality for the solar eclipse, you'll have the rare opportunity to witness this spectacular celestial event. Be sure to bring your eclipse glasses for safe viewing! For your convenience, clean spring water is available on-site, ensuring you stay hydrated during your stay. Additionally, we're located just 30 minutes from Poplar Bluff and 15 minutes from Doniphan, offering easy access to amenities while still enjoying the seclusion of our farm. Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at our secluded campsite. Whether you're seeking peace and tranquility or an unforgettable eclipse viewing experience, we invite you to join us for a memorable retreat in the heart of Missouri's countryside.
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from 
$100
 / night
99%
(483)

Arcadia Valley Outdoors Land

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents150 acres · Ironton, MO
A wooded, more private camping experience with unique site designs and natural elements. Wood-burning sauna and hot tub available for guest use. Primitive Camping Van/vehicle Camping Small Trailers Glamping Bike Trails, Hiking, creek sit-in' on site! Best of the midwest biking, hiking, Ozark Trail, rock climbing Elephant Rocks Park, Johnson Shut-ins and more swimming holes nearby! Wood for sale on site, $5 per bundle, Fire starters also available. Ask us about our "Really Good At Camping" merchandise. We have shirts, mugs & wine tumblers! *Cash Only* at this time. We Have free stickers! *For camp site locations please refer to our map in the campsite listing photos. We are located just west of the Ironton Water Works Plant and the Shepherd Mountain Lake dam. Turn right after the dam, drive through Shepherd Mountain Lake Park. If our "campground guests only" gate if it is closed, and please close gate behind you. Thank you! No Hook Ups No swimming in the lake and no outside boats, but we have boats for campers to use free of charge! General Store and restroom facilities/showers coming soon!
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$25
 / night
100%
(1)

Crazy acres farms

13 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Poplar Bluff, MO
Special dry camp location approx 2km away from the line of totality for the 2024 total eclipse. Pasture space available for tent campers with good view of the sky. Fishing pond and creek access short walks away from the camping location. About a 20 minute drive from Poplar Bluff, you will be far out enough to enjoy the eclipse without distraction, but close enough to town for provisions when needed.
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from 
$150
 / night
99%
(53)

Fredrock Waterfront Glampground

20 sites · RVs33 acres · Fredericktown, MO
Fredrock is a small privately owned glampground on crystal clear 12mile Creek. It is located about 15 minutes from the nearest town on 33 beautiful acres. Enjoy one of the 7 themed stays or bring your own RV and stay in one of only 5 RV spots. It is just a few minutes walk to 12 Mile Creek which runs through the property. Enjoy the beautiful bluffs, shut-ins, gravel river beds and crystal clear water. Swimming, hiking, stargazing, and horseshoes are all available at Fredrock!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night

The best camping near Lake Wappapello State Park guide

Overview

About

Southeast Missouri’s largest lake is a summertime hotspot, with an endless menu of activities. From the time the sunrises over the Ozarks hills to the time it sets, revealing the stars above, Lake Wappapello State Park provides a basecamp for adventure. Of course, the lake is a focal point for boating, paddling, swimming, and fishing. Or, take to the hills or creek valley for hiking, mountain biking, backpacking, and horseback riding under a forest canopy. Lakeviews are a bonus. No tent or RV? No problem. This state park also has full-service cabins and camper cabins.

Notable campgrounds

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Asher Creek Campground is closed November 1 to March 31, but Ridge Campground is open year round.
  • Reservations for both campgrounds are available April 1 through October 31, and open 12 months in advance.
  • Ridge Campground does not have water and showers available in the off season.
  • Book your site on the Missouri State Parks website or by phone.
  • Advanced reservations are encouraged during summer weekends and holidays.

When to go

As you might guess, summer is the busy season, as the cool lake waters and daytime temperatures warm. Be prepared for temperatures topping the 80s and 90s. While water recreation tapers off in the fall, the forests are at their prime, with colorful hues filling the hillsides. Spring also is too cool to take a swim, but hikers appreciate the pleasant weather for tackling the trails. The campgrounds empty in the winter months, providing solitude for those who can brave the freezing temperatures and occasional snows.

Know before you go

  • Lake Wappapello State Park has basic and electric sites, with both 30-amp and 50-amp power.
  • Cell signal strength varies greatly within the park. 
  • Three free boat launches are found in the park along the lake shores.
  • The Allison Cove Day-Use Area is home to the swim beach, available seasonably.

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